1956 BMW 507 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 507. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 507 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 507 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1956 BMW 507. (148 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 507. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 182 kg more than 1956 BMW 507. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 BMW 507 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 BMW 507. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 507 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 507 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
